Stretching apparatus

ABSTRACT

Stretching apparatus for use in stretching the lower limbs of a human subject is disclosed. The apparatus ( 500 ) comprises at least one cradle configured to support a leg, or part thereof, of said subject, said cradle moveable between a non-stretching position and a stretching position. At least one cradle movement means ( 504 ) is provided operable to move said cradle between said non-stretching and stretching positions. The cradle movement means ( 504 ) comprises first movement means configured to move said cradle through a first plane of movement and second movement means configured to rotate said cradle through a second plane of movement transverse to said first plane of movement.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an apparatus for stretching muscles,tendons, ligaments and other soft tissues of the human body andparticularly although not exclusively for stretching muscles of the hipjoint and lower limbs.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Human limb flexibility, including muscle extensibility and jointmobility is known to be of importance in the prior art in sport andgeneral fitness for the avoidance of injury and improvement ofperformance as well as in clinical rehabilitation following injury.

The hip joint is of considerable importance regarding athletic activity.Abnormal function of the hip pre-disposes the subject to a variety ofsports injuries. In the non-athletic population hip dysfunction mayultimately lead to arthritis and back pain. Stretching exercises areknown to be used to improve hip mobility to reduce predisposition toinjury or disorder. Hip stretching exercises are difficult to performunaided, that is in the absence of a physiotherapist, due to the need tostabilize the pelvis, thus isolating the hip joint to ensure thatmovement takes place only at/around the hip joint whilst conducting theexercises and also due to the considerable forces required to overcometightness in strong muscles and other soft tissues of the hip joint inperforming the stretches.

A small number of prior art stretching apparatus are known includingU.S. Pat. Nos. 4,574,789, 5,405,306, 4,647,040, FR 2613238, U.S. Pat.Nos. 5,449,336, 5,261,865, 4,819,936 and FR 2,357,236.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,405,306, 5,449,336 and 5,261,865 all disclosestretching apparatus for stretching of human lower limbs. Each apparatusconsists of a frame provided to allow a subject to be positioned in asupine position, that is on their back. A material loop or cuff isprovided for positioning over the foot or ankle of the subject whereinthe cuff is connected to a cable. The cable is arranged over a system ofpulleys to extend to a handle connected to one end of the cable. Bypulling on the handle the subject can raise and lower one or both legsto perform a stretch. In U.S. Pat. No. 5,405,306 the cable can bearranged through one of a plurality of pulley sets to enable bothflexion and abduction stretches of the lower limbs. In U.S. Pat. Nos.5,449,336 and 5,261,865 a belt is provided to encircle the subject'swaist in order to stabilize the pelvis against the base platform of theapparatus.

Prior art apparatus of a type such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.5,405,306 requires substantial variation of the setup configuration toperform more than one type of stretch. Limited abduction and adductionof the hip joint can be performed by pulling of cables to transfer acomponent of force to the coronal plane. This system is energyinefficient and introduces unwanted force components which act tostretch the limb in other planes of movement and which result inundesirable strain of the stretching muscles. The result is a mixing ofstretches which limits the ability to controllably perform a desiredstretch.

FR 2613238 and U.S. Pat. No. 4,647,040 provide stretching apparatusarranged for abduction of the lower limbs. Leg supports are providedupon which the subject rests their legs. An actuating arm enables thesubject to perform abduction stretches.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,913,759 discloses apparatus for performing extensionstretching of the thigh muscles wherein an arm member contacts the frontmuscles of the users thigh and a motor is provided to urge the armcontacting the thigh downwardly thus stretching the thigh muscles on thefront side of the leg.

FR 2357236 discloses apparatus for performing kinetic joint therapywherein a moving panel hinges on a horizontal fixed panel. The movingpanel provides a leg support and the fixed panel may be used to securethe upper body in position. This apparatus relies on the leg muscles ofa subject or a second person to position the moving panels; it has noactuating means by which the subject can effect movement. Furthermore,it does not allow adduction or rotation stretches to be performed.

Prior art stretching apparatus provides for specific lower limbstretching exercises to be performed. The use of cable and pulleysystems is disadvantageous for several reasons. Use of cable and pulleysystems does not enable precise movement of the limb during stretch asthe cable is flexible to pivot about the pulleys such that the limbbeing stretched cannot be maintained within a single desired plane ofstretch. Further, where the subject is required to manually operate theapplication of tension to the cables by pulling on the cable ends thetension applied to the stretch cannot be maintained uniform. This alsoresults in the fatigue of the subject through application of tension tothe cables which results in inability to maintain the limb in thestretched position.

When considering hip stretching exercises no single prior art apparatusprovides for controlled stretching of the hip joint in all sixanatomical directions. Where cable systems are used the prior artapparatus are required to be adjusted by repositioning or reattachmentof the cable pulley system between different stretches. Use of straps orcuffs attached to the ankles results in uncontrolled stretching and useof the cable system has a result that the lower limb being stretched issubject to undesirable compressive or tensile forces along its length.

In order to perform controlled stretching of single lower limbs it isnecessary to position the resting lower limb in a substantially fixedresting position. The prior art apparatus does not provide means forpositioning the resting limb in a predetermined resting position whichassists stretching of the stretching limb.

It is also known in the prior art that during flexion stretching thethigh of the resting leg will tend to rise as the stretching leg reachesmaximum tension. This is unwanted as the subject's pelvis is tiltedbackwards as a result which reduces the effectiveness of the stretch.

Isokinetic testing apparatus, such as the Multi-Joint System 3 apparatusmanufactured by Biodex Medical Systems Inc. New York, USA are also knownin the prior art. Such isokinetic testing apparatus provide means formeasuring muscle strength by application of a resistive force to a limbagainst which the subject pushes. These machines are known in the priorart for use in monitoring muscle strength and are useful in monitoring asubject's recovery from injury. In the prior art, apparatus forimproving and/or monitoring muscle strength do not provide forstretching of the same muscles in a controlled manner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Specific embodiments according to the invention provide an apparatus formovement of the human lower limbs passively in specified pre-determinedanatomical directions in order to increase or maintain a range of motion(ROM) of the hip joint is provided. A stretching force is applied in acontrolled manner to stretch soft tissue structures, particularly themuscles that cross, or extend to/from the hip joint. Controlledpositioning and stabilisation of the lower limbs allows the subject toperform appropriate stretching regimes either unassisted or as directedby a therapist.

The stretching apparatus comprises two limb cradles, each arranged tofit independently movable and each arranged to fit under a subject's legto support the leg. Preferably, each cradle connects to a cradlemovement means having two pivots each defining an axis of rotation andproviding for movement of the cradle through two planes of movementtransverse to each other, and preferably orthogonal. Preferably a handleis provided for manual operation, but optionally movement of each cradlemay be powered by an electric motor or may be servo assisted.

By providing two cradles which can be moved independently and which areconfigured to move in either the same plane or a different plane to eachother, the position of both the resting leg and stretching leg can becarefully controlled. It is advantageous to fix the resting leg andpelvis of the subject during stretch of the stretching leg as thisallows for quantitative comparisons of the relative degree and extent ofstretch between the two legs.

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a stretchingapparatus for use in stretching the lower limbs of a human subject saidapparatus comprising:

first and second cradles each independently movable and each configuredto support a leg, or part thereof, of said subject, each said cradlebeing movable between a corresponding respective non-stretching positionand a corresponding respective stretching position; and

-   -   at least one cradle movement means operable independently to        move each said cradle between said non stretching and stretching        positions, said at least one cradle movement means comprising:    -   first movement means configured to rotate each said cradle in a        corresponding respective first plane of movement; and    -   second movement means configured to rotate each said cradle in a        corresponding respective second plane of movement transverse to        a said first plane of movement.

Other aspects of the invention are as recited in the claims herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same maybe carried into effect, there will now be described by way of exampleonly, specific embodiments, methods and processes according to thepresent invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A to E illustrates diagrammatically flexion, medial and lateralrotation, adduction and abduction stretching of a subject's leg and theassociated rotational movement of the hip joint;

FIG. 2 illustrates diagrammatically extension stretch of a leg about thehip joint;

FIG. 3 illustrates in-use positioning of a subject on the stretchingapparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates diagrammatically the location of a pelvic clamp atthe pelvis of the subject during use of the stretching apparatus of thepresent invention to prevent lateral tilting of the pelvis and toisolate the hip joint for performing stretching exercises;

FIG. 5 illustrates a first embodiment of the stretching apparatus of thepresent invention in external perspective view;

FIG. 6 illustrates in external perspective view the limb cradles andchassis of the stretching apparatus in accordance with a firstembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7A illustrates a side view of the right hand limb cradle andchassis of the stretching apparatus in accordance with the firstembodiment of the present invention and illustrating the positioning ofthe cradle movement means;

FIG. 7B illustrates an end view of the right hand limb cradle inaccordance with the first embodiment of the stretching apparatus of thepresent invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a plan view of a right hand limb cradle in accordancewith the first embodiment of the stretching apparatus and furtherillustrating positioning of the right hand cradle movement means;

FIG. 9 illustrates in external perspective view the limb cradle movementmeans;

FIG. 10A illustrates a front view of one of the cradle movement meansand FIG. 10B illustrates a cross-section C—C (see FIG. 12B) through thesame;

FIG. 11A illustrates a view on the line A—A of FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11B illustrates an opposing side view to FIG. 11A of the cradlemovement means;

FIG. 12A illustrates a plan view of the right hand limb cradle movementmeans;

FIG. 12B illustrates a cross-section through the line B—B of FIG. 10B;

FIG. 13A illustrates the cradle movement means and cradle second sectionin external perspective view in accordance with a second embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 13B illustrates a plan view of the cradle movement means and cradlesecond section in accordance with the second embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 14A illustrates an elevation view of the right hand limb cradle andchassis of the stretching apparatus in accordance with a fourthembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14B illustrates a plan view of the support surface in a fourthembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15A illustrates an elevation view of the right hand limb cradle andchassis of the stretching apparatus in accordance with a fifthembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15B illustrates a plan view of the support bar in a fifthembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16A illustrates an elevation view of the right hand limb cradle andchassis of the stretching apparatus in accordance with a sixthembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16B illustrates a plan view of the support surface of the sixthspecific embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

There will now be described by way of example the best mode contemplatedby the inventors for carrying out the invention. In the followingdescription numerous specific details are set forth in order to providea thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparenthowever, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may bepracticed without limitation to these specific details. In otherinstances, well known methods and structures have not been described indetail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.

In this specification the term cradle relates to a support, cuff,collar, stirrup or other support means configured to support a humansubject's leg, or part thereof, in a selected position.

Referring to FIG. 1 herein, FIG. 1A illustrates diagrammatically a humansubject in the supine position and illustrating a representation of thesubject's hip joint 101 and knee joint 102 of each lower limb. FIGS. 1Bto E illustrate the stretches which can be performed by using thestretching apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 1B illustrates flexion of the subject's left leg wherein thesubject's leg is raised by movement of the leg about the hip joint inthe sagittal plane of motion. In performing this stretch the stretchingleg is lifted upwards from the resting position to a maximumdisplacement of approximately 120° from the resting supine positionwherein the limb is in-line with the main length of the subject's body.Flexion stretches the hamstrings at the back of the subject's thigh andin particular the Semimembranosus, Semitendinosus, Biceps femorismuscles as well as partially stretching the Gluteus maximus.

FIG. 1C illustrates the subject's left leg raised from the restingposition such that the knee is bent at approximately 90° to the thighwhich is maintained transverse and generally orthogonal to the subject'smain body length. With the leg in this position where the hip and kneeare both bent at approximately 90° planar movement of the leg betweenthe knee and foot enables rotational stretching of the hip joint. Inparticular, planar movement away from the subject's body is known asmedial rotation resulting in stretching of the lateral rotator muscles,in particular of the Piriformis, Gemellus superior, Gemellus inferior,Obturator internus, Obturator externus, Quadratus femoris. Planarmovement of the foot or calf towards and across the midline of thesubject's body is known as lateral rotation resulting in stretching ofthe medial rotator muscles, in particular the Gluteus medius, Gluteusminimus and Tensor fasciae latae.

FIG. 1D diagrammatically illustrates adduction stretching wherein thesubject's left limb is maintained outstretched in the supine positionand the leg is moved through the coronal plane (also known as thefrontal plane) about the hip joint to move the leg towards and acrossthe midline of the subject's body so as to stretch the thigh abductors,in particular the Gluteus medius, Gluteus minimus, Tensor fasciae lataeand the soft tissue structure of the Iliotibial band. During adductionstretching the resting limb is preferably placed in a rest positionwhich avoids obstruction of the adduction stretch of the stretchinglimb. In FIG. 1D the rest position is illustrated with the leg raisedand bent.

FIG. 1E illustrates abduction stretching wherein the subject's left legis moved about the hip joint by rotation through the coronal plane ofmovement, the outstretched straight limb being moved away from the bodyto stretch the thigh adductors, in particular the Adductor brevis,Adductor longus, Adductor magnus, Gracilis and Pectineus muscles.

Referring to FIG. 2 herein, a subject is illustrated in position forperforming extension stretching. The subjects left resting(contralateral) leg is held in a leg support cradle in a raised and bentresting position of approximately 120° hip flexion and 90° knee flexionwhich has the effect of tilting the subjects pelvis posteriorly. For asubject whose extension stretching is less than optimal the stretchingthigh (right thigh in FIG. 2) will rise above the horizontal. Thestretching leg is retained in the support cradle by straps and thecradle is released to move under gravity towards the horizontalposition. This enables extension stretching to be performed wherein thestretching leg moves through a first plane of movement around the hipjoint to stretch the subjects hip flexors at the front of the subject'sthigh, in particular the Psoas major, Iliacus, Sartorius, Tensor fasciaelatae. The stretching leg is maintained and supported by the cradle ateither 90° knee flexion, which stretches the Rectus femoris in additionto the hip flexors, or 0° knee flexion (the dashed outline of thesubject's lower leg) which stretches the Iliotibial band in addition tothe hip flexors.

The stretches illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 and described above enableselective stretching of the hip joint through all six anatomicaldirections, i.e. flexion and extension, abduction and adduction andmedial and lateral rotation. The stretching apparatus of the presentinvention enables the subject to perform each of these stretches in anindependent and mutually exclusive manner which enables the user tocarefully control the extent of stretch and to monitor relative progressof the subject.

FIG. 3 illustrates apparatus according to a first embodiment of thepresent invention in use by a subject. The subject 301 is illustrated inresting supine position. The subject's head and upper body as far as thehips is supported on an examination table 302 typically comprising apadded couch to support the subject's back. The examination table israised from a ground surface by one or a plurality of leg supports 303which raise the examination table approximately 60–80 cm from the groundsurface. The leg supports 303 are optionally adjustable to accommodatesubject's of varying size. Two cradles 306, each configured to supportone of the subject's legs extend from one end of the examination table.In supine position the subjects upper body and head are supported by thepadded couch 302 and the subject's legs are located in cradles 306 and,in resting position, each cradle 306 extends in-line with theexamination table so that the user is in a relaxed supine restingposition. A pelvic clamp 305 forming a vice-like restraint to stabilizethe pelvis laterally by gripping the subject's ilium on either side isprovided. The clamp 305 is attached to the examination table in theregion of the end of the examination table adjacent cradles 306. Thepelvic clamp comprises two clamping members arranged on opposite sidesof the examination table and connected by a screw member. Rotation of ahandle at one end of the connecting screw member urges the clampingmembers 304 together to grip the subject at the pelvis. Once clamped,the subject's pelvis is prevented from tilting laterally duringstretching such that the hip joints and lower limb joints and musclesare effectively isolated from the upper body movements duringstretching. Optionally, a belt may be further provided to locate overthe subject's waist to further facilitate isolation of the hip jointfrom the upper body during stretching. A cradle movement means isprovided at the connection between cradles 306 and table 302 such thatan axis of the cradle movement means is in line with the main axisextending through the subject's hip joints. The cradle movement meanscomprise a handle on the exterior facing side of the apparatus which iswithin reach of the users arms (not shown) when in supine position suchthat the subject can control movement of the cradles 306 to perform therequired stretching exercises.

Referring to FIG. 4 herein an outline of the bone structure of thesubject's pelvis and hip joint when positioned on the apparatus of thepresent invention in accordance with FIG. 3 is illustrated. Clampingmembers 402, 403 having a shape and configuration designed to engage atand grip the iliac crests 401 of the subject's pelvis are provided. FIG.4 illustrates two designs of clamping member, a first design 402 havinga C-shaped cross-section and a second design 403 having a V-shapedcross-section. A screw member 404 is provided with an actuating arm tourge the clamping members 402, 403 together to grip the iliac crests ofthe subject's pelvis in a vice-like manner. Each clamping member 402,403 is approximately 10 cm in width, sufficient to encapsulate theprofile of the subject's iliac crests. A belt 407 is optionally furtherdrawn across the subject's waist to further prevent rotation of thepelvis during stretching. The subject's hip joints 405 are thus isolatedfrom the upper body during stretching. The outer edge of the cradles 406are illustrated adjacent the hip joints.

The pelvic clamp 305 is optionally configured to tilt forwards andbackwards through predetermined positions allowing the subject's pelvisto be positioned at a desired degree of tilt during stretching. Theclamping members are optionally configured for automatic adjustment togrip the subject's pelvis. Pressure sensing means are optionallyprovided to sense contact of the clamping members 402, 403 with thesubject's pelvis. The sensing means feedback control signals to aprocessor which operates to automatically move the clamping members 402,403 to maintain a selected clamp pressure at the pelvis.

FIG. 5 illustrates an external perspective view of a first embodiment ofthe stretching apparatus of the present invention. Two cradles areillustrated for supporting the subject's lower limbs, particularly thesubject legs and feet. Each cradle is made up of three sections. A firstsection 501 is provided to support the subject's calf, ankle and foot, asecond section 502 is provided to support the subject's lower thigh anda third section 503 supports the subject's upper thigh and buttocks.Each cradle is formed in the shape of a channel profiled to correspondto the general profile of the human leg. Mirror image channels areprovided on corresponding cradles formed on either side of the apparatusto correspond to the right and left leg profiles. First and secondcradle sections 501, 502 are connected by a hinge 507 permittingmovement of the first cradle section 501 about the hinge to accommodatebent-knee leg positions. A connecting bar and hinge 508 forms a lockingmeans enabling each cradle to be locked in a substantially linear orangled position. Third cradle section 503 is mechanically fastened tothe cradle movement means 504. Two cradle movement means 504 areprovided, each providing separate means to independently operatemovement of the attached cradle. A frame 505 connects the two cradlemovement means 504 and locates each cradle movement means in opposingorientation at one end of the respective third cradle section 503. Eachcradle movement means 504 further comprises a handle portion 506arranged such that the subject occupying the stretching apparatus cangrasp each handle portion 506 with their respective hand to operatemovement of the cradles to perform a stretch. Each cradle movement means504 is mounted on a respective third cradle section 503 by means of aplate and fastening means e.g. screw or bolt fastening means 505. Theplate fastening cradle movement means 504 to third cradle section 503comprises slots enabling the height of the cradle movement means 504 tobe adjusted such that an axis through the subject's hips is in-line withthe axis of rotation of the cradle movement means 504 through a firstplane of movement.

FIG. 6 illustrates an external perspective view of the two cradles ofthe stretching apparatus in the absence of the cradle movement means andconnecting frame. Each cradle formed by first, second and third cradlesections 501, 502, 503 forms a limb support and is made of either moldedplastics material or preformed metal sheet lined with padded material soas to provide a comfortable leg support. First cradle section 501configured to support the lower leg is connected to second cradlesection 502 at hinge 507 which allow for rotation of the first cradlesection about hinge 507 such that non-linear leg positions can beaccommodated and supported by each cradle. First and second cradlesections 501, 502 are further connected by a locking means 508 in theform of a guide bar extending between the side portions of the twocradle sections. Guide bar 508 is configured to releasably lock firstand second cradle sections 501, 502 in linear position. Unlocking thelocking means 508 provides for relative movement of the first and secondcradle sections 501, 502 so that the subject may position one or bothlegs in a bent arrangement. The locking means can be reengaged once inbent configuration so as to support one or both legs in the bentposition. First and second cradle sections 501, 502 are formed suchthat, in the linear arrangement illustrated in FIG. 6, a gap 605 isprovided between the base portion supporting the subject's legs, thisgap 605 providing for relative transverse movement of the first andsecond cradle section 501, 502.

Further referring to FIG. 6 herein, each second cradle section 502 isadjustably mounted at the third cradle section 503. Each third cradlesection 503 comprises a base portion and walls defining a channel, eachwall portion comprising an aperture having a plurality of slottedrecesses. A fastening hinge member 604 extends through aperture 603 anda wall portion of the second cradle section 502 to securely connectsecond and third cradle sections 502, 503. Fastening hinge means 604 ismoveable through aperture 603 to engage at a selected slotted recessthereby providing an adjustment mechanism. Adjustment of the position ofthe second cradle section 502 at the third cradle section 503 provides alength adjustment mechanism for the stretching apparatus to accommodatea variation in subject lower limb size which enables the hip joint to belocated adjacent to the cradle movement means of the apparatus and theknee joint to be located adjacent to hinge 507. Plate member 606 havingslots 601 is provided on the external wall portions of the third cradlesection 503 for attachment to the cradle movement means. Each thirdcradle section 503 has a ribbed external structure 602 providing supportand strength to the stretching apparatus.

Referring to FIG. 7A herein there is illustrated an engineering drawingshowing a side view of the right hand limb cradle. The lower leg support501 is illustrated to be connected to the upper leg support 502 by apivot 507 corresponding to the position of the subject's knee jointduring use. Locking means 508 is formed by a latch plate which allowsthe upper and lower leg supports 502, 501 to be fixed in-line or atright angles, although any suitable locking means such as a springloaded plunger may be used. Aperture 603 in the third cradle sectionprovides 110 mm length of adjustment for variations in the subject'supper leg length, illustrated by arrow 701. The variable position of theupper leg support 502 through adjustment of the fastener 604 through theslotted aperture 603 is illustrated by arrow 705 and the dashed outlineof the upper leg support 502 in the adjusted position. The position ofthe cradle movement means 504 is superimposed on the third cradlesection 503.

FIG. 7B illustrates an end view of the right hand limb cradle of thestretching apparatus with the control movement means 504 and frame 505superimposed and illustrated by dashed lines. The position of the centreline of the hip and knee joints of the subject during use areillustrated by dashed line 703 and the position of the centre line ofthe right hip joint of the subject during use is illustrated by dashedline 702. The position of the centre line of the subject's body duringuse of the stretching apparatus is illustrated by dashed line 704.

FIG. 8 illustrates a plan view of the right hand limb cradle of thestretching apparatus. Each cradle section 501, 502, 503 comprises a baseportion and wall portions forming a channel and is manufactured frompressed aluminum powder coated and lined internally with a paddedmaterial. The subject's leg is retained in the limb cradle through theuse of straps attached to the first and second cradle sections 501, 502.These straps (not shown) may comprise buckled straps or Velcro® strapsextending from opposite wall portions of the cradle section and over aleg housed therein. The centre line of the subject's body 802 isillustrated. Further, the right hand side cradle movement means 504 issuperimposed and illustrated by way of dashed lines.

FIG. 9 illustrates an external perspective view of the right and lefthand side cradle movement means and connecting frame 505. Each cradlemovement means comprises a base plate 901 arranged to form an arm fortransfer of rotational movement about bearing 906. Each limb cradle isfastened through plate member 606 to a cradle movement means. An axlemember 902 projects through plate 606 to operate raising and lowering ofthe cradle. Movement of axle member 902 is thus communicated directly tothe respective cradle. Each cradle movement means 504 further comprisesa handle 506 and first bearing 904. Handle 506 is moveable through afirst vertical plane of movement and second transverse plane of movementindicated by arrows 912. The handle 506 is optionally specificallyshaped, e.g. L-shaped, to enable ease of use in movement through the twoplanes of movement. In use, the subject manually pulls handle portion506 or pushes handle portion 506 to move the handle portion through afirst plane of movement. This causes movement of bearing 904 in one ofthe directions indicated by arrow 913. This movement is transferred toaxle member 902 as a rotation of the axle member which is thentransferred to the connected limb cradle to raise or lower the entirelimb cradle accordingly. Cradle movement means 504 comprises a lockingratchet mechanism (not shown) which is coordinated with handle 506 suchthat a raised or lowered limb cradle position can be maintained inlocked position by activating the locking ratchet. The ratchet mayfurther co-operate with a damping mechanism 903 such that on release ofthe ratchet lock the respective cradle is lowered under control of thedamping mechanism 903 such that the limb housed in the cradle is loweredslowly. Alternatively, a switch (not shown) may be provided to reversethe direction of movement that the locking ratchet mechanism controls,such that by pushing the handle portion 506 the subject can exert asubstantially downward force for extension stretches.

Further referring to FIG. 9 herein, when the handle portion 506 is movedin a plane transverse to the first plane of movement, i.e. in the leftor right direction, the supporting plate and cradle movement means andattached cradle is moved about a second bearing member 906. This causesrotation according to arrow 914 about the axis of second bearing member906 with the result that the attached cradle is moved in a directioneither across the midline of the subject's body or away from the midlineof the subject's body. Handle portion 506 and first bearing member 904are mounted on a support column 905 connecting with the base plate 901and second bearing set 906. A scale 910 is provided on the supportcolumn to indicate the height adjustment of the control movement meansfrom the base plate 901. Control knob 915 located on the underside ofthe base plate and in-line with column 905 provides, through a rotationof knob 915, for adjustment of the height of the cradle movement means904. Before commencing use of the apparatus for stretching the subjectis directed to adjust the height of each cradle movement means such thatthe axle member 902 is substantially in line with the main axis throughthe subject's hip joints. This is desired for optimal stretchingperformance.

Further referring to FIG. 9 herein, frame member 505 forms a housing tosupport both cradle movement means. Each cradle movement means islocated in a slotted aperture formed in the frame member 505. Asupporting column extends through aperture 505 and is locked in positionby a control knob 508 rotatable to fix the supporting column inposition. A ratchet mechanism 911 is further provided at the base ofeach support column extending through frame member 505 to control therotational movement of the cradle movement means about second bearingset 906 and to enable the apparatus to be maintained in the stretchingposition until released by the subject wherein the return path of thebearing is optionally damped to prevent sudden movement upon release ofthe stretch. Through use of control knobs 908 the width of the controlmovement means is adjusted and monitored via scale 909. The subject isdirected prior to use to adjust the width of the two cradle movementmeans to fit closely the subject's particular subject width betweentheir hips.

Each cradle movement means thus provides means to move the respectiveattached cradle in a first plane of movement wherein the cradle israised or lowered and the hip joint is moved to a position of flexion orextension with a maximum hip flexion of up to 120°. Each controlmovement means is also operable to rotate about second bearing set 906thus moving the respective cradle in a second plane of movementtransverse to the first plane of movement and generally at right angles(orthogonal) to the first plane of movement. With the subject's leg in alinear position, the non-stretching leg is raised to a bent position andabduction up to 60° and adduction up to 45° can be performed by the userpushing the handle portion 506 to rotate around bearing set 906 eithertowards the midline of the subject's body or away from the midline ofthe subject's body. With the stretching leg in an upright bent positionsimilar rotations will result in medial rotation up to 45° and lateralrotation up to 60°. As a result movement in all six anatomicaldirections about the hip joint can be performed using the apparatus bymovement of the handle and the attached cradle through two planes ofmovement. These ranges of movement are the likely maximum ranges ofmovement of a human subject, although it is envisaged that the apparatusmay extend beyond these ranges of movement.

Each bearing set has an associated locking ratchet allowing theapparatus and subject's leg contained within the cradle to be maintainedin a stretched position without the user having to hold the leg orcradle in that position. The flexion ratchet is damped such that uponrelease of the locking ratchet return to a resting position occursslowly without damage to the user's muscles or soft tissue or cradle.Means to adjust both height of the cradle movement means and widthbetween the two opposing cradle movement means makes the apparatussuitable for adults of both sexes and subjects of various heights, widthand general dimensions.

FIG. 10A illustrates a side view of one of the cradle movement meansfrom the far end of the first cradle section. The right hand leg cradlesections are shown by dashed lines and a right hand side cradle movementmeans is illustrated showing the intersection of axle member 902 withthe third cradle section. Calibrated scale 910 is provided to monitorvertical adjustment of the cradle movement means. Vertical adjustment isperformed by operation of the control knob 915. A second calibratedscale 909 is further provided on frame 505 to monitor width adjustmentof the right and left hand side cradle movement mechanisms. The secondcalibrated scale 909 provides for 18.5 mm horizontal adjustment at eachside of the cradle movement means. Rotation through the second plane ofmovement about the second bearing set operates through ratchet mechanism911 providing 4° increments and providing a plurality of positions atwhich the rotation may be locked. A retaining clamp 1001 retains theratchet in position. Arrow 1002 indicates the preferred distance betweenthe hip joint and buttock of the subject when correctly positioned inthe cradle.

Referring to FIG. 10B herein a cross-section through the line C—C (referto FIG. 12B) is illustrated. Movement of axle member 902 occurs about afirst rotational axis extending through the centre line of the right andleft hip joints 1003. Angular contact ball bearings 1004 providingradial and axial thrust are provided to form the first bearing set forrotational movement through a first plane of movement in performingflexion and extension stretches. The control knob 915 has a screw threadproviding 30 mm vertical adjustment. A spring loaded plunger is moveablebetween first and second positions in a slotted portion 1006 in theunderside of base member 901. To position the right and left hand sidecradle movement means at appropriate width to suit a particular subjecteach spring loaded plunger 1005 is moved downwardly away from theunderside of base member 901 and the base member is slid to anappropriate position at which the spring loaded plunger 1005 isre-engaged in the slot 1006. This provides a manual push/pull movementto provide the maximum of 18.5 mm of horizontal adjustment on each sideof the apparatus.

FIG. 11A illustrates a view of the right hand side cradle means on theline A—A (see FIG. 10A).

FIG. 11B illustrates the right hand side cradle movement means of FIG.11A illustrating a side view from the exterior of the apparatus. Thepositioning of the plurality of gears within the cradle movement meansfor transfer of movement of the handle 506 through a first plane ofmovement to cause rotational movement of the axle member 902 isillustrated. The first input gear 1101 driven by pushing or pulling ofthe handle by the subject in a first plane of movement drives a secondtransfer gear 1102 to rotate a third output gear 1103 connected to theaxle member 902. The manually operated gear system is configured toenable the subject to generate sufficient force, by use of the subjectsarm strength, to move a leg, overcoming tension in the tissues toperform the stretch. A rotary damper 1104 is further provided to allowcontrolled descent of the subject's leg and cradle from an elevatedposition. The handle 506 and gear mechanism further incorporates aratchet providing for controlled step movement and locking of therespective attached cradle at 4° increments. This provides a coarsecontrol enabling gross movement to position the limb at the currentmaximum ROM of the subject.

FIG. 12A illustrates a plan view of the right hand side cradle movementmeans illustrating the positioning of the base member 901 on the frame505. Clamping screw 908 provides for locking and unlocking of the basemember 901 in a desired position and the slot 1201 formed in the framemember 505 provides for sliding movement of the second bearing set 906to adjust the width between the right hand side and left hand sidecradle movement means.

FIG. 12B illustrates a cross-section through the line B—B (see FIG. 10B)illustrating the angular contact ball bearings 1004 transferringmovement of handle portion in the first plane of movement to axle member902 to cause lifting and lowering of the connected cradle portion. Thelocating shaft 1203 of the second bearing set 906 providing location ofthe second bearing set 906 in the frame 505 is further illustrated.

Referring to FIGS. 13A and 13B herein, a second embodiment of thestretching apparatus of the present invention is illustrated. In thesecond embodiment the cradle's second section 1306 which, in use,supports the subject's upper leg and thigh is indirectly connected tothe cradle movement means 1301. Cradle movement means 1301 correspondsto the cradle movement means as described in respect of the firstembodiment. The first and second embodiments differ in the mechanism bywhich each cradle is connected to the respective cradle movement means.In the second embodiment, an L-shaped arm 1303 is positioned over thebase member 1302 to connect to a supporting rod member 1304 which isconnected to second cradle section 1306 by an adjustable bar member1305. Second cradle section 1306 is further connected to a first cradlesection for supporting the lower leg below the knee by hinge 1307 andlatch member 1308.

L-shaped arm 1303 is connected to an axle member of the cradle movementmeans 1301 to transmit movement of the cradle movement means through afirst plane of movement to the cradle to perform extension and flexionstretches. Operation of cradle movement means 1301 through a said firstplane of movement swings arm 1303 through an arc indicated by arrow1309. Arm 1303 is connected to rod member 1304 which transmits movementto cradle second section 1306 through adjustable bar member 1305.

Bar member 1305 is slideably mounted at one end either at the undersideof rod member 1304 or within an internal cavity formed by rod member1304. At a second end, bar member 1305 is securely fixed to theunderside of cradle second section 1306. A spring mounted resilientplunger forms a clamp for positioning bar member 1305 in one of aplurality of optional preset positions providing for adjustment of theapparatus to accommodate subjects having different leg lengths. Rodmember 1304 is mounted over the second bearing set as described inrespect of the first embodiment which is in turn mounted in a frame (notshown) as described in respect of the first embodiment.

A locking means is further provided to retain arm 1303 in a centralposition over base member 1302 to isolate rotation of the cradle aboutthe second bearing set from rotation about the first bearing set duringperformance of adduction or abduction stretching. The locking mechanismcomprises a spring loaded bolt member mounted on the underside of basemember 1302 and arranged to be urged into locking position throughcorresponding apertures on base member 1302 and arm 1303. This preventsmovement of the arm 1303 and attached cradle through the first plane ofmovement where rotation only about the second bearing set is required toperform the stretch. Use of this locking means allows for isolation ofthe cradle with respect to a selected plane of movement which enablesstretching to be selectively performed through a specific plane ofmovement, thereby allowing for a stretch of a selected set of muscles.

The second embodiment provides an indirect connection between cradle andcradle movement means which enables the cradle movement means to bepositioned outward from the position of the subject's hip relative tothe arrangement of the first embodiment. This is advantageous as itprevents possible impingement of cradle movement means on the side ofthe subject's body during rotation about the second bearing set when legabduction stretching is being performed. The use of L-shaped arm 1303and rod and bar members 1304, 1305 also enable a stronger attachment tocradle movement means 1301. In the second embodiment the third cradlesection is not required and is replaced by indirect attachment using arm1303, rod member 1304 and adjustable bar 1305 for connection to cradlemovement means 1301.

In a third embodiment of the present invention, the examination tableand stretching apparatus are located approximately 15–30 cm from aground surface. Support means is provided to support at least one cradlein a position of 0° flexion. The support means comprises a support leg,provided on the underside of one or both of the first cradle sectionswhich extends substantially transverse to the main under surface of thefirst cradle section towards a ground surface, contacting the groundsurface and providing a support leg to support the subject's legs withinthe respective cradles. A roller or castor is provided at one end of thesupport leg configured to contact the ground surface. The support leg isprovided in order to decrease the load on each of the ratchets of thecradle movement means which operate to maintain a selected position ofeach cradle through the first plane of movement. Each castor isconfigured to move across a ground surface such that abduction andadduction stretches can be performed wherein each castor rolls acrossthe ground surface as the corresponding cradle and subject's leg arestretched.

Each castor is hingeably mounted at the underside of the respectivefirst cradle section such that when the first cradle section is moved toa raised position, eg during flexion or lateral/medial rotationstretching the support leg hinges towards the underside of the cradlesection into a storage position. As the cradle is lowered towards aposition of 0° flexion the support leg automatically extends towards theground surface to contact the ground surface and support the cradle.

In other respects, the third embodiment of the present invention iscompatible with features of either or both the first and secondembodiments of the present invention.

In a fourth embodiment of the present invention, the stretchingapparatus is located above a support surface. Referring to FIG. 14Aherein, there is illustrated an elevation view of the right hand limbcradle and chassis of the stretching apparatus in accordance with thefourth embodiment. The right hand limb cradle comprises a first cradlesection 1401, a second cradle section 1402, and an arm 1403 that isconnected to the second cradle section 1402. In the fourth embodimentthe third cradle section is not required and is replaced by indirectattachment using arm 1403 for connection to the cradle movement means1410.

The arm 1403 comprises at least one roller, castor or stub 1404 whichextends substantially transverse to a main undersurface of the arm 1403when the limb cradle is in a position of 0° flexion. The rollers,castors or stubs 1404 are in contact with a support surface 1405. Thiscontact decreases the load on each of the ratchets of the cradlemovement means 1410 which operates to maintain a selected position ofeach cradle through the first plain of movement. A height of the supportsurface 1405, and a height of the cradle movement means 1410, areadjustable relative to the chassis 1406 using adjustment means 1407.Furthermore, a distance of the chassis 1406 in relation to theexamination table 1408 is adjustable using second adjustment means 1409.The first and second adjustment means allow for variations in a subjectposition or variations in a subject's anatomical dimensions.

When the limb cradle is in a position of 0° flexion, the rollers,castors, or stubs 1404 are in contact with the support surface 1405. Itcan be seen from FIG. 14B that the support surface 1405 is shaped toallow contact with the rollers, castors or stubs when abduction andadduction stretches are performed.

In other respects, the fourth embodiment of the present invention iscompatible with features of any previous embodiment of the presentinvention.

In a fifth specific embodiment, the stretching apparatus is locatedabove a support bar. Referring to FIG. 15A herein, there is illustratedschematically an elevation view of a right hand limb cradle and chassisof the stretching apparatus in accordance with the fifth embodiment. Theright hand limb cradle comprises a first cradle section 1501, a secondcradle section 1502, and an arm 1503 attached to the second cradlesection 1502. In the fifth embodiment the third cradle section is notrequired and is replaced by attachment using arm 1503 for connection tothe cradle movement means 1507.

When the cradle is in a position of 0° flexion, the first cradle section1501 is in contact at its lower surface with a support bar 1504. Thesupport bar 1504 and the cradle movement means 1507 are located on achassis 1505. A height of the support bar and a height of the cradlemovement means are adjustable relative to the chassis using heightadjustment means 1506. Furthermore, a distance of the chassis inrelation to the examination table 1509 is adjustable using horizontaladjustment means 1508. The vertical and horizontal adjustment means maybe used to compensate for variations in a subject's anatomicaldimensions.

When performing abduction or adduction stretches, the cradle remains ina position of 0° flexion and therefore remains in contact with thesupport bar 1504 for at least an initial stage of the abduction oradduction stretch. To facilitate movement between the first cradlesection 1501 and the support bar 1504, the support bar 1504 may comprisea low friction material, for example PTFE.

In other respects, the fifth embodiment is compatible with features ofany of the previous embodiments of the present invention.

In a sixth embodiment, the first cradle section of the stretchingapparatus is located above a support surface. Referring to FIG. 16Aherein, there is illustrated an elevation view of the right hand limbcradle and chassis of the stretching apparatus in accordance with thesixth embodiment. The right hand limb cradle comprises a first cradlesection 1601, a second cradle section 1602 and an arm 1603 formingindirect attachment between the second cradle section 1602 and thecradle movement means 1610. In the sixth embodiment the third cradlesection is not required and is replaced by indirect attachment using arm1603 for connection to cradle movement means 1610.

A support arm 1604 comprising a stub or a castor 1605 is located on alower surface of the first cradle section 1601. The stub or castor 1605is in contact with a support surface 1606 when the right hand limbcradle is in a position of 0° flexion. A height of the support surface1606 is adjustable relative to the chassis 1607 using adjustment means1608. In addition, a height of the cradle movement means 1610 isadjustable relative to the chassis 1607 using a second height adjustmentmeans 1609. A distance of the chassis 1607 relative to the examinationtable 1612 is adjustable using horizontal adjustment means 1611. Theseadjustments allow for variations in a subject's anatomical dimensions.Referring to FIG. 16B herein, it is shown that the support surface 1606is shaped to allow contact between the support surface 1606 and thecastor or stub 1605 when either cradle is used for abduction oradduction stretches.

In other respects, the sixth embodiment of the present invention iscompatible with features of any of the previous embodiments.

To provide additional stabilization during use, each cradle can belocked in the central position, i.e. at 0° flexion/extension, 0°adduction/abduction, by use of an optional additional locking meansacting on each bearing set whilst the other cradle is operated tostretch the subject's leg. The lock can be selectively activated toprevent movement about the first or second bearing set, both or neither

Further optional features of the stretching apparatus include a meansfor measuring the displacement of each cradle from the recognisablecentral (neutral) position. An electrogoniometer can therefore beprovided for analysis of the degree of stretch. Measuring the angle ofstretch allows for quantitative orthopaedic assessment and monitoring ofrecovery from injury over time.

In further alternative arrangements the first cradle section supportingthe lower half of the subject's leg, ie the calf and foot, is alsoadjustable in length and contains a foot-shaped support to support andlimit movement of all or part of the respective foot.

In a further alternative arrangement, the examination table has a firstend that is in close proximity to the stretching apparatus, and a secondend in opposition to the first end. Cradle movement means are positionedat the first end of the examination table. A width of the first end issmaller than a width of the second end to allow room for the fullmovement of the handle of the cradle movement means.

The stretching device of the present invention may be made in separatemale, female and children's versions by variation of the apparatusdimensions.

A mode of operation of the apparatus of the present invention, accordingto any of the embodiments described, for performing a variety of legstretches will now be described. The stretching apparatus in accordancewith FIG. 5 is initially located at an examination table. Theexamination table optionally comprises a pelvic clamp 304. The subjectis positioned on the table in supine position, the subject's legs areplaced in respective left hand and right hand limb cradles and thepelvic clamp and belt are placed in position to isolate movement of thelower limbs from the upper body. The subject's arms remain free duringuse of the apparatus and in a position so as to grasp the handleportions 506 to operate the apparatus to perform various stretches. Oncethe subject has placed each leg in the respective cradle a strap isfastened over the upper and lower half of each leg extending from onewall portion of the respective cradle to the opposing wall portion andthereby encompassing the leg within the cradle. The subject can performa stretching program as desired and may choose to stretch one or bothlegs at any one time. The following is an example stretching program inwhich all stretches begin from a resting position as illustrated in FIG.1A, only one limb is stretched at a time:

Stretch 1—Flexion

To perform flexion stretch of the left leg the subject pulls handle 506of the left hand side cradle movement means towards the subject throughan arc parallel to the wall portion of the third cradle portion 503.Flexion can occur for up to 120° from the resting normal position andthe subject performs the flexion to an extent at which stretch isoccurring and the subject is comfortable. The subject may then releasethe handle 506 wherein the stretch is maintained via the ratchetmechanism which allows the subject to fine control the stretch allowingsmall movements so as to bring the limb under stretch to a new positionof tension by effectively taking up the slack in the leg as stretchoccurs. For example, the subject can operate the handle 506 to move onestep through the ratchet to achieve a further 4° rotation and furtherstretch. Again, the leg can be maintained by the locking ratchet in thenew stretch position. This position can then be maintained by thesubject for a pre-determined time length defined in the stretchingschedule being implemented. When the subject decides to relax the leg,the ratchet is released through use of a catch or other control means atthe handle or cradle movement means main body and the respective cradleis lowered from the flexion position to return to a resting position.This lowering movement occurs slowly via the damping mechanism withinthe control movement means.

Stretch 2—Extension

Extension stretching is generally illustrated in FIG. 2. To achieve anoptimal stretching position the non-stretching leg is placed in a raisedand bent position as illustrated in FIG. 2. To move the non-stretchingleg to the resting position the subject pulls the respective handleportion 506 through the first plane of movement to achieve anapproximately 120° stretch as for flexion. The first cradle section 501is rotated about hinge 507 such that the subject's knee bends such thatthe thigh and calf of the resting leg are at approximately 90°. Thisposition is then maintained by the locking ratchet of the respectivecontrol movement means and supported by the respective leg cradle.

For a subject who exhibits tightness in the hip flexor muscles the thighof the stretching leg will rise upwards to a position illustrated inFIG. 2. The stretching leg, which is retained in the cradle by means ofstraps, can be positioned in either two ways. One is achieved byrotating the first cradle section of the limb cradle housing thestretching leg about hinge 507 downwardly such that the first and secondcradle portions 501 and 502 are positioned to house the thigh and calfof the stretching leg at approximately 90°. The other is to maintain thestretching leg in extended linear position as illustrated by the dashedlines in FIG. 2. The ratchet mechanism for maintaining the flexionposition is then released, allowing the weight of the cradle andstretching leg to provide a downwards force to stretch the muscles onthe front of the thigh. Additionally, the direction of the ratchetmechanism can be reversed such that by pushing on the handle 506 thesubject can exert a downwards force on the cradle to augment thedownwards force resulting from the weight of the cradle and stretchingleg.

Stretch 3—Medial and Lateral Rotation

The resting leg is maintained supported by a cradle in extended linearposition. The stretching leg is raised through a first plane of movementusing handle portion 506 and the second and third limb cradle sectionsare adjusted to be positioned at right angles so as to support the thighand calf of the stretching leg at approximately 90° in raised positionas illustrated in FIG. 1C. This raised position can be maintained by useof the locking ratchet of the respective cradle movement means. Thesubject is then in position to perform both medial and lateral rotationstretches about the hip joint. Medial rotation stretching is performedby the subject pushing on handle portion 506 to move the handle portionand cradle through a second plane of movement about second bearing set906. To perform medial rotation stretching of the left leg this rotationwill occur in a counter-clockwise direction about second bearing set906. To perform lateral rotation stretching the subject operates handleportion 506 throughout the second plane of movement in a direction so asto move the stretching leg across the midline of the subject's body. Forlateral rotation stretching of the left leg rotation occurs in aclockwise direction about bearing set 906. For both types of stretchingthe ratchet mechanism on the second bearing set 906 allows the stretchto be maintained in position until the subject desires to release thestretch.

Stretch 4—Adduction and Abduction

In the resting position the subject operates handle portion 506 torotate about second bearing set 906 to move a stretching leg either awayfrom the body (abduction) or across the midline of the body (adduction)whilst maintaining the leg in the coronal plane, i.e. substantiallywithin the main plane of the subject's body. For abduction stretching ofthe left leg rotation of the cradle about second bearing set 906 occursin counter clockwise direction. For performance of adduction stretchingthe resting leg is moved to a raised and bent position as described inrespect of positioning the leg for medial and lateral rotationstretching such that the stretching leg can be moved across the midlineof the subject's body without the resting leg interfering with thestretch. The resting leg is supported in the raised and bent position bya respective cradle. For adduction stretching of the left leg rotationof the cradle occurs about second bearing set 906 in a clockwisedirection. For both types of stretching the ratchet mechanism on thesecond bearing set 906 allows the stretch to be maintained in positionuntil the subject desire to release the stretch.

The above descriptions of stretches are by way of example only, and arenot intended to limit the ways in which the present invention may bepracticed. For example, to perform the above stretches the subject neednot be in the supine position, but may be in the anatomical position orin a position with the hips at substantially 90° flexion.

Where the subject is in the anatomical position, flexion stretches maybe performed by operating the cradle movement means to move the cradlesubstantially in the sagittal plane.

Where the subject is in the anatomical position, abduction and adductionstretches may be performed by operating the cradle movement means tocause rotation of the cradle substantially in the coronal plane withrespect to the subject.

Where the subject's hips are at substantially 90° flexion, abductionstretches may be performed by operating the cradle movement means tocause rotation of the cradle substantially in the transverse plane withrespect to the subject.

1. Stretching apparatus for use in stretching the lower limbs of a humansubject said apparatus comprising: first and second cradles eachindependently movable and each configured to support a leg, or partthereof, of said subject, each said cradle being movable between acorresponding respective non-stretching position and a correspondingrespective stretching position; and first means for moving a cradle,said first means operable to independently move said first cradlebetween said non stretching and stretching positions, said first meansfor moving a cradle comprising: rotation means configured to rotate saidfirst cradle in a first plane of movement; rotation means configured torotate said first cradle, in a second plane of movement transverse to asaid first plane of movement; second means for moving a cradle, saidsecond means operable to independently move said second cradle betweensaid non stretching and stretching positions, said second means formoving a cradle comprising: rotation means configured to rotate saidsecond cradle in a third plane of movement; and rotation meansconfigured to rotate said second cradle in a fourth plane of movementtransverse to said third plane of movement.
 2. Stretching apparatus asclaimed in claim 1, wherein each said cradle comprises respective firstand second ends, a said first end of each said cradle being attached toa respective said means for moving a cradle, and each said cradleextending between its said first end, to which said cradle is attached,and its second end.
 3. Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1,wherein a said cradle comprises a first portion configured to support aportion of the subject's leg below the subject's knee, a second portionconfigured to support the subject's leg above the knee, and a hingeconnecting said first and second portions.
 4. Stretching apparatus asclaimed in claim 1, wherein a said cradle comprises a first portionconfigured to support a portion of the subject's leg below the subject'sknee, a second portion configured to support the subject's leg above theknee, and a hinge connecting said first and second portions, and saidfirst and second portions are movable about said hinge to position thesubject's leg in either a straight or a bent position.
 5. Stretchingapparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a said cradle further comprisesmeans to adjust the cradle length.
 6. Stretching apparatus as claimed inclaim 1, wherein a said cradle further comprises means to adjust thecradle length, said means to adjust the cradle length comprising a guideslot having a plurality of notches forming a plurality of adjustmentpositions; and a portion of said cradle comprises positioning meansconfigured to locate in said notches, wherein said cradle length isslideably adjustable by movement of said positioning means between saidnotches.
 7. Stretching apparatus as claimed in claims 1, wherein a saidcradle forms a channel configured to receive the subject's leg. 8.Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a said cradle formsa channel configured to receive the subject's leg, and furthercomprising at least one fastening strap arranged to fasten across saidchannel and said subject's leg contained therein.
 9. Stretchingapparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a said cradle comprises a firstportion configured to support a portion of the subject's leg below thesubject's knee, a second portion configured to support the subject's legabove the knee, and a hinge connecting said first and second portions,and further comprising a locking means extending between said first andsecond cradle portions, said locking means arranged to releasably locksaid cradle in a selected configuration.
 10. Stretching apparatus asclaimed in claim 1, wherein a said cradle comprises a first portionconfigured to support a portion of the subject's leg below the subject'sknee, a second portion configured to support the subject's leg above theknee, and a hinge connecting said first and second portions, and furthercomprising a latch member extending between said first and second cradleportions, said latch member arranged to releasably lock said cradle in aselected configuration.
 11. Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1,wherein a said cradle comprises a first portion configured to support aportion of the subject's leg below the subject's knee, a second portionconfigured to support the subject's leg above the knee, and a hingeconnecting said first and second portions, and further comprising aspring loaded plunger extending between said first and second cradleportions, said spring loaded plunger arranged to releasably lock saidcradle in a selected configuration.
 12. Stretching apparatus as claimedin claim 1, wherein said rotation means configured to rotate said firstcradle in said first plane comprises a first bearing and axle memberconnected to one end of a said first cradle, rotation of said axlemember about said first bearing being operable for raising or loweringof said first cradle.
 13. Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1,wherein said rotation means configured to rotate said first cradle insaid second plane comprises a second bearing arranged such that rotationof said second bearing operates rotation of a said first cradle in aplane of constant height.
 14. Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim1, wherein: said rotation means configured to rotate said first cradlein said first plane comprises a first bearing and axle member connectedto one end of a said first cradle, rotation of said axle member aboutsaid first bearing being operable for raising or lowering of said firstcradle; said rotation means configured to rotate said first cradle insaid second plane comprises a second bearing arranged such that rotationof said second bearing operates rotation of a said first cradle in aplane of constant height; and wherein said first and second bearingsrotate in said first and second planes of movement, each said plane ofmovement being offset to the other by 90°.
 15. Stretching apparatus asclaimed in claim 1, wherein said rotation means configured to rotatesaid second cradle in said third plane comprises a third bearing andaxle member connected to one end of said second cradle, rotation of saidaxle member about said third bearing being operable for raising orlowering of said second cradle.
 16. Stretching apparatus as claimed inclaim 1, wherein said rotation means configured to rotate said secondcradle in a fourth plane comprises a fourth bearing arranged such thatrotation of said fourth bearing operates rotation of a said secondcradle in a plane of constant height.
 17. Stretching apparatus asclaimed in claim 1, wherein: said rotation means configured to rotatesaid second cradle in said third plane comprises a third bearing andaxle member connected to one end of a said second cradle, rotation ofsaid axle member about said third bearing being operable for raising orlowering of said second cradle; said rotation means configured to rotatesaid second cradle in said second plane comprises a fourth bearingarranaed such that rotation of said fourth bearing operates rotation ofsaid second cradle in a plane of constant height; and wherein said thirdand fourth bearings rotate in said third and fourth planes of movement,each said plane of movement being offset to the other by 90°. 18.Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a said means formoving a cradle comprises at least one ratchet operable to maintain asaid means and a connected said cradle in a selected position. 19.Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a said means formoving a cradle comprises at least one ratchet operable to maintain asaid means and a connected said cradle in a selected position, whereinsaid ratchet provides a fine control mechanism for controlling aposition of said cradle during stretching.
 20. Stretching apparatus asclaimed in claim 1, wherein a said means for moving a cradle furthercomprises a damping mechanism configured to dampen return movement of asaid cradle from a said stretching position to a said non-stretchingposition.
 21. Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a saidmeans for moving a cradle further comprises a locking means arranged tomaintain an attached said cradle in a first selected position, saidlooking means releasable to enable movement of said cradle to a secondselected position.
 22. Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1,wherein a said means for moving a cradle further comprises means tomeasure the movement of a said cradle in a said plane of movement. 23.Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a said means formoving a cradle comprises a handle portion operable for movement of asaid cradle in a said plurality of planes of movement.
 24. Stretchingapparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a said means for moving acradle further comprises a height adjustment mechanism.
 25. Stretchingapparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a said means for moving acradle further comprises a height adjustment mechanism which isadiustable to align an axis extending through the subject's hip jointswith an axis of rotation of a said rotation means.
 26. Stretchjngapparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a said apparatus comprises aframe portion which extends between sajd first means for moving a cradleand said second means for moving a cradle.
 27. Stretching apparatus asclaimed in claim 1, wherein a frame portion extends between said firstmeans for moving a cradle and said second means for moving a cradle,wherein each said means for moving a cradle is slideably mounted on saidframe portion, said frame portion further comprising adiustment meansarranged to adiust the mounting position of each said means for moving acradle and thereby to adiust the width between said first and secondmeans for moving a cradle.
 28. Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim1, wherein each said cradle comprises a support leg hingeably mounted atone end of said leg at the underside of a portion of said cradle and acastor attached at a second end of the leg such that said castor is incontact with a ground surface when said cradle is in a position of 0°flexion, said support means comprising a support bar, said support barconfigured to be in contact with a lower surface of said cradle whensaid cradle is in said position of 0° flexion.
 29. Stretching apparatusas claimed in claim 1, wherein a support means is provided to support atleast one said cradle in a position of 0° flexion.
 30. Stretchingapparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a support means is provided tosupport at least one said cradle in a position of 0° flexion; saidsupport means comprising: an arm configured to connect said cradle to asaid means for moving a cradle; at least one selected from the set of aroller, castor or stub, extending substantially transverse to a mainunderside of said arm; and a support surface; wherein when said cradleis in a position of 0° flexion, said one selected from a roller, castoror stub is in contact with said support surface.
 31. Stretchingapparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein support means is provided tosupport at least one said cradle, said support means comprising asupport bar, said support bar configured to be in contact with a lowersurface of said cradle when said cradle is in said position of 0°flexion.
 32. Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a saidcradle comprises at least one roller mounted at the underside of aportion of said cradle such that said roller is in contact with asupport surface when said cradle is in a position of 0° flexion. 33.Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a said cradlecomprises at least one castor mounted at the underside of a portion ofsaid cradle such that said castor is in contact with a support surfacewhen said cradle is in a position of 0° flexion.
 34. Stretchingapparatus as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a table arranged tosupport the upper body of said subject and connected to said apparatusat one end to support a subject in a supine position.
 35. Stretchingapparatus as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a table arranged tosupport the upper body of said subject and connected to said apparatusat one end to support a subject in a supine position, wherein a distancebetween said table and said apparatus is adiustable in a horizontalplane.
 36. Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1, furthercomprising a table arranaed to support the upper body of said subjectand connected to said apparatus at one end to support a subject in asupine position, wherein a distance between said table and saidapparatus is adjustable in a vertical plane.
 37. Stretching apparatus asclaimed in claim 1, further comprising a table arranged to support theupper body of said subject and connected to said apparatus at one end tosupport a subject in a supine position wherein said apparatus furthercomprises a pelvic clamp comprising at least one clamping member movableto engage at the pelvis of a subject positioned in supine position onsaid apparatus, said clamp adjustable to tighten around the subject'spelvis.
 38. Stretching apparatus as claimed jn claim 1, furthercomprising a table arranged to support the upper body of said subjectand connected to said apparatus at one end to support a subject in asupine position wherein said apparatus further comprises a pelvic clampcomprising at least one clamping member movable to engage at the pelvisof a subject positioned in supine position on said apparatus, said clampadjustable to tighten around the subject's pelvis, and said clampingmember is shaped to surround the pelvic iliac crests of a said humansubject.
 39. Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1, for use inperforming one or more stretches of muscle and soft tissue surroundingthe human hip joint, said one or more stretches selected from the setcomprising: extension stretching; and/or flexion stretching; and/ormedial rotation stretching; and/or lateral rotation stretching; and/oradduction stretching; and/or abduction stretching.
 40. Stretchingapparatus as claimed in claim 1, comprising: a support table configuredto support said subject's back and upper body in a supine position; atleast one said means for moving a cradle being operable by said subjectfrom said supine position to move said cradles between a saidnon-stretching position and a said stretching position.
 41. Stretchingapparatus as claimed in claim 1, comprising: a support table configuredto support said subject's back and upper body in a supine position; asaid means for moving a cradle being operable by said subject from saidsupine position to move a said cradles between a non-stretching positionand a stretching position, and wherein each said cradle is independentlymovable by a separate said means for moving a cradle.
 42. Stretchingapparatus as claimed in claim 1, comprising: a support table configuredto support said subject's back and upper body in a supine position; asaid means for moving a cradle being operable by said subject from saidsupine position to move a said cradles between a non-stretching positionand a stretching position; and wherein each said means for moving acradle is located in the region of one end of a respective said cradleso as to locate each said means for moving a cradle, in use adjacentsaid subject's respective hip joints.
 43. Stretching apparatus asclaimed in claim 1, comprising: a support table configured to supportsaid subject's back and upper body in a supine position; a said meansfor moving a cradle being operable by said subject from said supineposition to move a said cradle between a non-stretching position and astretching position, and further comprising a clamp arranged to engageat the pelvis of a subject positioned on said apparatus in said supineposition.
 44. Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1, comprising: asupport table configured to support said subject's back and upper bodyin a supine position; a said means for moving a cradle being operable bysaid subject from said supine position to move said cradles between anon-stretching position and a stretching position, and furthercomprising: a clamp arranged to engage at the pelvis of a subjectpositioned on said apparatus in said supine position; wherein said clampcomprises first and second clamping members arranged on opposite longsides of said table and means to urge said members together. 45.Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein said means for movinga cradle is supported in use by a support surface.
 46. Stretchingapparatus for use in performing controlled stretching of the muscles andsoft tissues associated with the human hip joint said apparatuscomprising: first and second cradles each independently movable for usein positioning a subject's legs during stretching and each configured tosupport a leg, or part thereof, of said subject, each said cradle beingmovable between a corresponding respective non-stretching position and acorresponding respective stretching position; and two means for moving acradle, each said means connected to a corresponding respective saidcradle, means for moving a cradle having first and second pivots formingfirst and second axes of rotation, said each said means for moving acradle operable independently to move said respective connected cradlein a sagittal plane with respect to a human subject, and to move saidrespective connected cradle in a coronal plane with respect to a humansubject.
 47. Stretching apparatus for use in performing abduction and/oradduction stretching of a human subject's thigh adductor and/or abductormuscles respectively, said apparatus comprising: first and secondcradles each independently movable and each configured to support a leg,or part thereof, of said subject, each said cradle being movable betweena corresponding respective non-stretching position and a correspondingrespective stretching position, such that said leg is held substantiallyin an extended position; and first and second means for moving a cradle,each said means operable to independently move a correspondingrespective said cradle between said non-stretching and stretchingpositions, each said means for moving a cradle comprising: rotationmeans configured to rotate said corresponding cradle in a correspondingrespective first plane of movement; and rotation means configured torotate said corresponding cradle in a corresponding respective secondplane of movement transverse to a said first plane of movement, wherein:at least one said means for moving a cradle, said means being operableto rotate a said cradle about an axis of rotation and in a said plane ofmovement so as to move said leg across and/or away from a midline ofsaid subject's body to perform adduction and/or abduction stretches ofthe subject's leg respectively.
 48. Stretching apparatus as claimed inclaim 44, wherein when said human subject is substantially in theanatomical position, said means for moving a cradle is capable of movingsaid cradle in substantially the coronal plane with respect to saidhuman subject.
 49. Stretching apparatus as claimed in claim 44, whereinwhen said human subject's hips are substantially in a position of 90°flexion, a said plane of movement is substantially the transverse planewith respect to said human subject.
 50. Stretching apparatus for use inperforming medial or lateral rotation stretching of a human subject'sthigh lateral rotator or medial rotator muscles respectively, saidapparatus comprising: first and second cradles each independentlymovable and each configured to support a leg, or part thereof, of saidsubject, each said cradle being movable between a correspondingrespective non-stretching position and a corresponding respectivestretching position; and at least one means for moving a said cradle,said means operable to independently move a said cradle between a saidnon-stretching and stretching positions, said at least one means formoving a cradle comprising: rotation means configured to rotate saidcradle in a first plane of movement; and rotation means configured torotate said cradle in a second plane of movement transverse to a saidfirst plane of movement, wherein: at least one said cradle is configuredto support a leg, or part thereof, in a position such that the thigh ofthe supported leg is substantially orthogonal to the subject's upperbody, said cradle being rotatable about an axis of rotation so as tomove a portion of said supported leg in a direction across or away froma midline of the subject's body to perform lateral rotation or medialrotation stretches respectively; and said at least one means for movinga cradle being operable to rotate said cradle about said axis ofrotation, wherein in use, said axis is arranged to be substantiallycoincident with an axis extending through a subject's respective hipjoint and knee joint.